EP1298027A2 - Automotive steering wheel - Google Patents

Abstract

Steering wheel for a motor vehicle comprises a steering wheel rim (2) that can change shape so that during its rotation the distance between a fixed point (X) on the rim on which the hand of the driver rests and a fixed support point of the driver's shoulder joint on the back rest of the vehicle seat changes by a smaller amount than in the case of a fixed shape steering wheel rim during the same steering movement. <??>Preferred Features: The steering wheel rim is divided into partial sections (2a, 2b, 2c) which move relative to each other.

Description

The invention relates to a steering wheel for a vehicle, in particular a Motor vehicle, with a shape of the steering wheel rim. For technical reasons only, the technical environment is based on the DE 199 19 278 A1.

An optimal sitting position with respect to the vehicle steering wheel assumes Driver of a (motor) vehicle, especially a car, if the Arms in the elbow joint are always angled. In particular, this is supposed to even if the steering wheel is turned without reaching around on the steering wheel rim apply, i.e. starting from the so-called steering wheel neutral position, in which the steerable vehicle wheels are not turned up to a steering wheel twist angle An angled arm position should be maintained at approx. 180 ° can be.

With steering wheels common today, this requirement can practically only then be met if the axis of rotation of the steering wheel is perpendicular to the upper body the driver essentially in the middle on the connecting line between his hits both shoulder ball joints. In practice, however, the plane described by the steering wheel, perpendicular to the steering wheel axis of rotation is not parallel to the driver's torso, but is like that inclined towards this that the steering wheel axis of rotation in the direction of travel viewed obliquely down. Sometimes the steering wheel axis of rotation, i.e. the so-called steering spindle, in addition in a plane parallel to the road considered slightly inclined to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. Finally, a steering wheel is often attached in a bad way, i.e. that the Steering spindle axis does not run exactly through the center of the steering wheel, for a larger space between the bottom of the steering wheel and the To have vehicle seat.

One consequence of this steering wheel arrangement is that a steering wheel lock occurs by, for example, 90 ° (starting from the steering wheel neutral position) the Distance between a fixed point of the steering wheel rim at which - without that the driver grips the steering wheel rim with his hand and the driver's shoulder joint belonging to this hand changed, and enlarged. Another enlargement of this Distance occurs when the steering wheel is turned further, for example by a further 90 ° (without changing hands). Only at steering angles greater than approx. 160 ° to 180 ° usually changed, i.e. the point of attack of the hands on the steering wheel rim changed.

The change or increase in distance just described is mostly so big that the driver's (left or right) shoulder is not can remain supported on the back of the vehicle seat. Should that The driver must therefore move the vehicle in a strong left turn move his right shoulder forward away from the backrest, and at one Right turn accordingly his left shoulder, which is fundamentally is undesirable.

The object of the present invention is to provide a remedial measure for the problems described.
The solution to this problem is characterized in that the shape of the steering wheel rim is such that, in the course of a steering wheel rotation, due to this shape change, the distance between a rim-fixed point at which the driver's hand is located and the driver's fixed support point -Shoulder joint on the backrest of the vehicle seat changes by a smaller amount than is the case with a dimensionally stable steering wheel rim during the same steering movement. Advantageous training and further education are included in the subclaims.

A steering wheel according to the invention is able to make the change described the distance between the so-called hand attack point on the steering wheel rim - (this is the wreath-proof point) - and the support point of the associated driver's shoulder on the vehicle seat back at least partially to compensate, i.e. the described change in distance when turning the steering wheel is at least smaller or is completely prevented, if the steering wheel rim is suitably deformed for this, i.e. viewed holistically, a different shape and thus a different situation in the room.

A changeable steering wheel rim is already known and in the DE 199 19 278 A1 mentioned at the outset, but in this Scripture not on the problem underlying the present invention received. In this known prior art essentially the diameter and / or the thickness of the steering wheel rim changed to be adaptable to the driver's perception Create steering wheel. The shape change of the steering wheel rim in Dependence on a so-called dynamic factor can be implemented. A targeted change in shape depending on the steering wheel rotation angle or the like not mentioned in this document.

It should be noted in this context that a steering wheel with a diameter-adjustable steering wheel rim also for Solution of the object of the present invention is suitable because if during a turning movement of the steering wheel the diameter of the Steering wheel rim is reduced, this also reduces the Distance between a steering wheel rim-fixed point at which the Hand of the vehicle driver, and the fixed support point of the Driver's shoulder joint on the back of the vehicle seat. Starting from the neutral position can thus be dependent on the steering wheel angle of rotation reduce the diameter of the steering wheel rim automatically.

In addition to the embodiment just mentioned for implementing the present invention there are a number of other ways of some of which are explained in more detail below. These are based on the common principle that the steering wheel rim in sections is divided, which are suitably movable relative to each other. Are next to it however, further principles for implementing the idea according to the invention conceivable.

According to a proposal, at least one is in the steering wheel neutral position left-hand and a right-hand steering wheel rim section in the steering wheel neutral position provided, each with its own axis of rotation for the Steering wheel rotation is assigned. If this subsection-individual Axis of rotation essentially through the fixed support point of the left or right driver's shoulder joint on the back of the vehicle seat runs, it is automatically ensured that the distance between a steering wheel rim-fixed point at which the hand of the vehicle driver located, and the affected (left or right) stationary Support point of the driver's shoulder joint on the back of the vehicle seat practically does not change even when the steering wheel is turned. there should be between the two sections of the steering wheel rim suitable gear or the like. Provided, which ensures that when the steering wheel rotates, the two sections in essentially rotated equally (each around its own axis of rotation) become.

According to a further proposal, at least one is in the steering wheel neutral position left-hand and a right-hand steering wheel rim section in the steering wheel neutral position provided, each section by an im essentially pivot axis extending in the plane of the steering wheel at least slightly pivotable towards or away from the driver is. In the course of a steering wheel rotation, the can respective driver-shoulder joint moving away fixed point which is the driver's associated hand, slightly to Upper body of the driver can be pivoted, causing an increase in distance can be at least partially offset.

For a more detailed explanation of this proposal, reference is made to the attached schematic diagrams, in which a preferred exemplary embodiment is shown in a highly abstract manner. 1 shows the top view of a steering wheel according to the invention in its so-called neutral position, while in FIG. 2 the section AA from FIG. 1 is shown, namely after the steering wheel, starting from the position / neutral position shown in FIG. 1, through an angle of 60 ° has been twisted according to arrow B. In this case, the steering wheel is shown in two variants I, II in FIG. 2 . In variant I, the mentioned pivoting of a steering wheel rim section took place, while in variant II this steering wheel rim section was not pivoted, so that variant II essentially reflects the usual state of the art with regard to the position or shape of the steering wheel rim.

First of all, referring only to FIG. 1 , the steering wheel shown - as is still usual - consists of a so-called steering wheel center part 1 and a steering wheel rim provided in its entirety with reference number 2, which is connected to the steering wheel center part 1 via spokes 3a, 3b, 3c. The steering wheel middle part 1 is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a steering spindle, not shown, which (in FIG. 1) runs perpendicular to the plane of the drawing (to the rear).

The steering wheel rim 2 is not different from the usual prior art formed in one piece, but here consists of three lined up Steering wheel rim sections 2a, 2b, 2c, of which (here) one over one segment of approx. 30 ° and two each over a segment of approx. 165 ° extend. The smaller one is centrally symmetrical in the steering wheel neutral position Steering wheel rim section 2a located below over the spoke 3a rigidly connected to the steering wheel middle part 2.

At the two ends of this so-called rigid steering wheel rim section 2a a joint 4 is provided, via which a connection with the second steering wheel rim section on the left in the steering wheel neutral position 2b or with the one on the right in the steering wheel neutral position third steering wheel rim section 2c is made. A third joint 4 is in this neutral position at the top between the second and third steering wheel rim section 2b or 2c, i.e. about this (upper) third joint 4 are the second and third steering wheel rim section 2b and 2c each with the first rigid steering wheel rim section 2a opposite ends hinged together.

The two steering wheel rim sections on the side in the steering wheel neutral position 2b and 2c are (as is the rigid steering wheel rim section 2a), respectively connected to the steering wheel center part 1 via a spoke 3b or 3c, wherein A hinge 5 is provided in each spoke 3b, 3c. Each hinge is 5 designed so that it is designed together with the appropriately Joints 4 each form a pivot axis 6b or 6c. To the in the Neutral position left pivot axis 6b, which is through the upper joint 4th between the steering wheel rim sections 2b and 2c and through the left lower joint 4 between the steering wheel rim sections 2b and 2a and is formed by the hinge 5 in the left spoke 3b, is the left steering wheel rim section 2b opposite the drawing plane pivotable. About the right swivel axis in the steering wheel neutral position 6c through the upper joint 4 between the steering wheel rim sections 2b and 2c and through the right lower joint 4 between the steering wheel rim sections 2c and 2a and by the hinge 5 in the right spoke 3c is formed is the right steering wheel rim section 2c pivotable relative to the drawing plane.

If the steering wheel is now turned from its neutral position, e.g. to the left according to arrow B (see FIG . 1 ), the right steering wheel rim section 2c is simultaneously pivoted out of the plane of the drawing to the upper body of the driver sitting in front of it, which ensures that in the course of this steering wheel rotation, due to the shape change of the steering wheel resulting from this pivoting of the steering wheel rim section 2c, the distance between a rim-fixed point X at which the hand of the vehicle driver is located (and which here only happens to coincide with the intersection of the spoke 3c) the steering wheel rim section 2c), and the fixed support point of the driver's shoulder joint on the back of the vehicle seat changes by a smaller amount than is the case with a dimensionally stable steering wheel rim during the same steering movement.

This can also be seen in FIG. 2 , explained below, in which a mechanism is schematically shown which initiates the pivoting movement of a steering wheel rim section 2c or 2b just described in the course of a steering wheel rotary movement. This pivoting movement should preferably take place automatically as a function of a steering wheel rotary movement without the driver having to do anything. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the pivoting movement of the pivotable steering wheel rim section 2b or 2c in the course of a steering wheel rotary movement can be controlled by a slide track 7, for which purpose in each case one pivotable steering wheel rim section 2b or 2c in an individual sliding track 7 guided lever 8 is attached.

In the now explained FIG. 2 , the section AA from FIG. 1 is shown, namely after the steering wheel has been rotated from the position / neutral position shown in FIG. 1 by an angle of 60 ° according to arrow B. In this case, the steering wheel is shown in two variants I, II in FIG. 2 . In variant I, the mentioned pivoting of a steering wheel rim section took place, while in variant II this steering wheel rim section was not pivoted, so that variant II essentially reflects the usual state of the art with regard to the position or shape of the steering wheel rim.

As can be seen in the illustration / variant I, the pivotable and in this steering wheel position then upper steering wheel rim section 2c to (in Figure 2) pivoted driver sitting on the right side of the steering wheel. the The driver perishes when turning the steering wheel according to arrow B (see Fig. 1) the steering wheel axis of rotation 9 of the steering wheel rim section 2c (and thus the wreath-proof point X) slightly opposite, so that the distance between this point X, at which the driver with his right hand Steering wheel rim includes, and the support point of the associated right Driver's shoulder on the back of the vehicle seat is negligible increased. The driver must therefore in the course of this steering wheel rotation do not move his right shoulder away from the seat back.

In contrast, under variant II is essentially the usual state of the Technology represented, i.e. a steering wheel that in the course of a rotational movement around the steering wheel axis of rotation 9 does not change its shape, i.e. always one level describes, without pivoting a steering wheel rim section or to Driver is moved. This variant II is a variant of the invention insofar as, according to an advantageous further development, this possible pivoting movement a steering wheel rim section 2b or 2c in The course of a steering wheel rotation can also be prevented. Generally speaking, this can be done in the course of a steering wheel rotation Steering wheel rim sections 2b, 2c movable relative to one another be fixable and thus the relative movement or Shape change of the steering wheel rim 2 does not take place if the driver does so wishes or if this is cheaper due to any circumstances.

Returning to the mechanism for initiating the pivoting movement of the pivotable steering wheel rim section 2b or 2c, one can see in FIG. 2 a lever 8 which is suitably fastened to the rear of the spoke 3b or 3c and which, with its free end, is in a slide track 7, which is provided by the driver also viewed from behind the steering wheel, is guided. This sliding track 7 or guide curve is shaped such that when the steering wheel is rotated in or against arrow B, the respective steering wheel rim section 2b and / or 2c is pivoted about the respective pivot axis 6b or 6c as shown and described. Separate link tracks 7 are provided for the left and right steering wheel rim sections 2b and 2c, which are then preferably arranged one behind the other.

Deviating from this mechanical positive guidance described, which - as already mentioned - can also be switched off or disconnected, is also a different, e.g. motor-initiated pivoting movement possible. A suitable motor, for example guided in a groove, in particular Electric motor can be the pivotable or generally movable Steering wheel rim section then corresponding to the respective boundary conditions move, or more generally a corresponding change in shape cause the steering wheel rim, this change in shape or the like. Then is preferably implemented electronically controlled.

In the sense of an advantageous further training can be in the neutral position of the steering wheel opposite the pivotable steering wheel rim sections the level of the steering wheel viewed in a slight by the driver swiveled away position. The so-called "Wing beat" is when turning a steering wheel according to the invention then subjectively less for the driver than if the steering wheel were in his Neutral describes a level. In fact, they can individual pivotable steering wheel rim sections, for example, in the course a steering wheel turning movement of 180 ° always absolutely, for example by 50 mm be shifted at the front, initially from a 25 mm shifted back position in the steering wheel neutral position of the corresponding steering wheel rim section so far that there is a flat steering wheel, and that only with a further steering wheel rotation there is a further advance shift of, for example, 25 mm.

The proposed steering wheel design with the so-called rigid, i.e. firmly with gives the steering wheel rim section 2a connected to the steering wheel center section 1 the steering wheel the necessary stability. Can also be suitably long for this the hinges 5 can be formed in the spokes 3b, 3c. In the event of a crash the rigid steering wheel rim section 2a approx. 60% to 80% of the supporting force take over, where the hinges 5 allow that over the Steering wheel rim 2 bending moments taken over by the upper areas and the load is distributed. The lever 8 behind the Spokes 3b, 3c can be designed as crash elements in order to achieve a targeted Achieving energy loss, however, can do this as well as a host of others Details, particularly of a constructive nature, deviate from those shown Embodiment can be designed without the content of the claims leave. An execution is possible in which the connection between the pivotable steering wheel rim sections 2b, 2c and Scenic track 7 interrupted and instead a rigid connection with the Steering wheel center part 1 or ultimately can be produced with the steering column. This creates the possibility of the offered swivel mechanism to override.

Claims (13)

Steering wheel for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, with a shape of the steering wheel rim (2),
characterized in that the steering wheel rim (2) is changeable in such a way that in the course of a steering wheel rotation, due to this change in shape, the distance between a rim-fixed point (X), at which the hand of the vehicle driver is located, and the stationary support point of the Driver's shoulder joint on the back of the vehicle seat changes by a smaller amount than is the case with a dimensionally stable steering wheel rim during the same steering movement. Steering wheel according to claim 1,
characterized in that the steering wheel rim (2) is divided into sections (2a, 2b, 2c) which are movable relative to one another. Steering wheel according to claim 2,
characterized in that at least one section of the steering wheel rim on the left in the steering wheel neutral position and one section on the right in the steering wheel neutral position is provided, each of which is assigned its own axis of rotation for the steering wheel rotation, which essentially consists of the fixed support point of the left or right driver - Shoulder joint runs on the back of the vehicle seat. Steering wheel according to claim 2,
characterized in that at least one section of the steering wheel rim (2b or 2c) on the left in the steering wheel neutral position and one on the right in the steering wheel neutral position is provided, with each section around a pivot axis (6b or 6c) running essentially in the plane of the steering wheel is at least slightly pivotable towards or away from the driver. Steering wheel according to claim 4,
characterized in that at least one further steering wheel rim section (2a) is provided, which is essentially rigidly connected to a steering wheel center part (1) which is fixed in a rotationally fixed manner to a steering spindle. Steering wheel according to claim 5,
characterized in that the pivotable steering wheel rim sections (2b, 2c) are connected to the rigid steering wheel rim section (2a) via a joint (4). Steering wheel according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized; that, when viewed in the steering wheel neutral position, a single steering wheel rim section (2a) rigidly connected to the steering wheel center section (1) is located essentially symmetrically in the center in the lower region of the steering wheel rim (2), on which the two pivotable then lateral steering wheel rim sections (2b, 2c) are each fastened via a joint (4) which are connected to one another at their other ends essentially centrally in the upper region of the steering wheel rim (2) via a joint (4). Steering wheel according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the pivotable steering wheel rim sections (2b, 2c) are each connected to the steering wheel center part (1) via a spoke (3b, 3c) provided with a hinge (5). Steering wheel according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the pivoting movement of the pivotable steering wheel rim section (2b or 2c) is controlled in the course of a steering wheel rotation by a slide track (7). Steering wheel according to claim 9,
characterized in that a lever (8) guided in the link track (7) is fastened to the pivotable steering wheel rim section (2b, 2c). Steering wheel according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the pivoting movement of the pivotable steering wheel rim section is controlled by a motor, in particular an electric motor, in the course of a steering wheel rotation. Steering wheel according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that, when the steering wheel is in the neutral position, the pivotable steering wheel rim sections (2b, 2c), when viewed in relation to the plane of the steering wheel, are in a position pivoted away from the driver. Steering wheel according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the steering wheel rim sections (2a, 2b, 2c) which are movable relative to one another in the course of a steering wheel rotary movement can be fixed against one another and the relative movement mentioned does not take place.

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